Coss says he has yet to make any decisions regarding his future political life but told Hutton Broadcasting this morning that his decision could be seen as clearing a path for seeking other office in the future.

While a look ahead is always in the cards when talking about a politician, announcing he isn’t running will also prompt looks back at his legacy.

Known for his progressive politics, Coss’ cited helping save the College of Santa Fe (now known as the Santa Fe University of Art and Design) from closure and establishing one of the highest minimum wages in the nation as two of his biggest accomplishments as mayor.

“Even if business groups keep wanting to weaken that or repeal that, they can’t change the fact that through that thousands and thousands of people have had more money in Santa Fe for eight years now,” he said of the living wage.

Coss had run for state House in the seat formerly held by long-serving Speaker Ben Lujan.

Coss lost in the Democratic primary to Carl Trujillo. Trujillo was unopposed in the general election. Coss had said he would serve concurrently as both mayor and representative if he won the seat.

This now leaves an open mayoral seat next year in Santa Fe — prompting an interesting election in the state capitol.

Update:

Congressman Ben Ray Lujan’s office released the following statement:

“I want to thank Mayor David Coss for his many years of public service and dedication to the City of Santa Fe in a career that has spanned decades. From his work for the Environmental Department to his time as Mayor – and all stops in between – David has always put the people of Santa Fe first. I look forward to working with David for the remainder of his term and know that he will spend that time just as he as he spent his entire time in office – working to build a stronger community and brighter future for our great city.”

Matthew Reichbach has blogged about New Mexico politics since 2006. Matthew was a co-founder of New Mexico FBIHOP with his brother and part of the original hirings at the groundbreaking website the New Mexico Independent. Matthew has covered events such as the Democratic National Convention and Netroots Nation.
In addition to politics, Matthew is an avid sports fan, especially of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and TV fan.